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Mounting evidence suggests that animals and their associated bacteria interact via intricate molecular mechanisms, and it is hypothesized that disturbances to the microbiome influence animal development. Here, we show that the loss of a key photosymbiont (i.e. bleaching) upon shading correlates with a stark body-plan reorganization in the common aquarium cyanosponge Lendenfeldia chondrodes. The morphological changes observed in shaded sponges include the development of a thread-like morphology that contrasts with the flattened, foliose morphology of control specimens. The microanatomy of shaded sponges markedly differed from that of control sponges, with shaded specimens lacking a well-developed cortex and choanosome. Also, the palisade of polyvacuolar gland-like cells typical in control specimens was absent in shaded sponges. The morphological changes observed in shaded specimens are coupled with broad transcriptomic changes and include the modulation of signaling pathways involved in animal morphogenesis and immune response, such as the Wnt, transforming growth factor β (TGF- β), and TLR–ILR pathways. This study provides a genetic, physiological, and morphological assessment of the effect of microbiome changes on sponge postembryonic development and homeostasis. The correlated response of the sponge host to the collapse of the population of symbiotic cyanobacteria provides evidence for a coupling between the sponge transcriptomic state and the state of its microbiome. This coupling suggests that the ability of animals to interact with their microbiomes and respond to microbiome perturbations has deep evolutionary origins in this group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Clinical quality registries aim to identify significant variations in care and provide anonymised feedback to institutions to improve patient outcomes. Thirty‐six Australian organisations with an interest in melanoma, raised funds through three consecutive Melanoma Marches, organised by Melanoma Institute Australia, to create a national Melanoma Clinical Outcomes Registry (MelCOR). This study aimed to formally develop valid clinical quality indicators for the diagnosis and early management of cutaneous melanoma as an important step in creating the registry. Methods: Potential clinical quality indicators were identified by examining the literature, including Australian and international melanoma guidelines, and by consulting with key melanoma and registry opinion leaders. A modified two‐round Delphi survey method was used, with participants invited from relevant health professions routinely managing melanoma as well as relevant consumer organisations. Results: Nineteen participants completed at least one round of the Delphi process. 12 of 13 proposed clinical quality indictors met the validity criteria. The clinical quality indicators included acceptable biopsy method, appropriate excision margins, standardised pathology reporting, indications for sentinel lymph node biopsy, and involvement of multidisciplinary care and referrals. Conclusion: This study provides a multi‐stakeholder consensus for important clinical quality indicators that define optimal practice that will now be used in the Australian Melanoma Clinical Outcomes Registry (MelCOR). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Rising antimicrobial resistance rates may impact the efficacy of empirical antibiotic treatment for febrile neutropenia in high-risk cancer patients. Lacking contemporary data about the epidemiology, antibiotic resistance patterns, and clinical outcomes from bloodstream infections (BSIs) in US cancer patients, it is unclear if current guidelines remain relevant. Methods In a cross-sectional study, 14 US cancer centers prospectively identified BSIs in high-risk febrile neutropenic (FN) patients, including those receiving chemotherapy for hematologic malignancies or hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Results Among 389 organisms causing BSI in 343 patients, there was an equal distribution of gram-negative (GN) and gram-positive (GP) bacteria, with variability across centers. Cefepime and piperacillin-tazobactam were the most commonly prescribed empirical antibiotics for FN, at 62% and 23%, respectively; a GP-directed agent was empirically included in nearly half of all FN episodes within the first 24 hours. Susceptibility to fluoroquinolones, cefepime, piperacillin-tazobactam, and carbapenems was 49%, 84%, 88%, and 96%, respectively, among GN isolates. Critical illness (CrI), defined as a new requirement for mechanical ventilation, vasopressor, or death within 30 days, occurred in 15% and did not correlate with fluoroquinolone prophylaxis, organism type, initial antibiotics, or adequacy of coverage. Only severity of illness at presentation, signified by a Pitt bacteremia score ≥2, predicted for critical illness within 30 days. Mortality was 4% by day 7 and 10% overall. Conclusions In accordance with US guidelines, cefepime or piperacillin-tazobactam remain effective agents or empirical treatment for high-risk cancer patients with FN who are stable at presentation, maintaining high GN pathogen susceptibility and yielding excellent outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A major advantage of metal additive manufacturing is the possibility for tool-free production of complex shaped parts. Currently, the geometrical and dimensional accuracy of these parts can only be reliably controlled by time and cost intensive post-process inspection, e.g. using x-ray computed tomography (XCT). The current investigation demonstrates the first in-situ metrology technique for electron beam powder bed fusion (PBF-EB) using electron-optical imaging (ELO). After a calibration experiment, the approach was validated for a PBF-EB build job by comparing in-situ ELO imaging data to XCT data of an as-built part. The quantitative comparison showed a remarkable high agreement between both imaging techniques. It is demonstrated that ELO imaging is capable of making accurate predictions on the geometrical and dimensional accuracy of the as-build part. This result is the basis of new possibilities for in-situ process and quality control in PBF-EB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hox genes are highly conserved transcription factors renowned for their roles in the segmental patterning of the embryonic anterior-posterior (A/P) axis. We report functions for Hox genes in A/P tissue segmentation and transverse fission behavior underlying asexual reproduction in adult planarian flatworms, Schmidtea mediterranea. Silencing of each of the Hox family members identifies 5 Hox genes required for asexual reproduction. Among these, silencing of hox3 genes results in supernumerary fission segments, while silencing of post2b eliminates segmentation altogether. The opposing roles of hox3 and post2b in segmentation are paralleled in their respective regulation of fission behavior. Silencing of hox3 increases the frequency of fission behavior initiation while silencing of post2b eliminates fission behavior entirely. Furthermore, we identify a network of downstream effector genes mediating Hox gene functions, providing insight into their respective mechanisms of action. In particular, we resolve roles for post2b and effector genes in the functions of the marginal adhesive organ in fission behavior regulation. Collectively, our study establishes adult stage roles for Hox genes in the regulation of tissue segmentation and behavior associated with asexual reproduction. Hox genes are highly conserved and well-known for their role in segmental patterning during early development. Here, the authors identify an unreported role for Hox genes in the adult tissue patterning and fission behavior required for asexual reproduction in planarian flatworms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A pleural fluid adenosine deaminase (ADA) has been used globally to assist in the diagnosis of a tuberculous pleural effusion (TPE) with a notable negative predictive value.Case Presentation: We report a case of a patient with a negative pleural fluid ADA who was found to have culture-positive and biopsy-proven Mycobacterium tuberculosis.Conclusions: This case shows the importance of pursuing gold standard diagnostic studies when clinical suspicion remains high despite negative preliminary testing. We further describe gaps in research to improve pleural fluid biomarkers for TPE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Which conditions should be considered as disorders in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) designation of "other specified disorders due to addictive behaviors"? Another reason might be that the manifold symptoms of PTED can mimic alternative diagnoses, although PTED is a very distinct disorder. PTED can be discriminated from adjustment disorder, just like PTSD, by looking at the cause, duration, severity, and type of syndrome. 21 Linden M, Baumann K, Lieberei B, Rotter M. The Post-Traumatic Embitterment Disorder Self-Rating Scale (PTED Scale). [Extracted from the article]

Additive manufacturing by electron beam melting (EBM) is a complex process, which still lacks reliable tools for process monitoring. Demanding processing conditions such as high temperature, high vacuum, and X‐ray radiation impede the continuous operation of standard process monitoring devices such as light‐optical camera systems. To overcome this deficit, the detection of backscattered electrons (BSEs) is a highly promising approach. A detection system for BSEs is used for recording the in operando signal during melting inside an EBM system. The acquired data are postprocessed by mapping the data points to spatial coordinates. A comparison between the obtained intensity map and the as‐built surface shows a remarkable correlation, which might be suitable for process monitoring and quality control purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Lung transplant recipients commonly develop invasive fungal infections (IFIs), but the most effective strategies to prevent IFIs following lung transplantation are not known. Methods We prospectively collected clinical data on all patients who underwent lung transplantation at a tertiary care academic hospital from January 2007–October 2014. Standard antifungal prophylaxis consisted of aerosolized amphotericin B lipid complex during the transplant hospitalization. For the first 180 days after transplant, we analyzed prevalence rates and timing of IFIs, risk factors for IFIs, and data from IFIs that broke through prophylaxis. Results In total, 156 of 815 lung transplant recipients developed IFIs (prevalence rate, 19.1 IFIs per 100 surgeries, 95% confidence interval [CI] 16.4–21.8%). The prevalence rate of invasive candidiasis (IC) was 11.4% (95% CI 9.2–13.6%), and the rate of non- Candida IFIs was 8.8% (95% CI 6.9–10.8%). First episodes of IC occurred a median of 31 days (interquartile range [IQR] 16–56 days) after transplant, while non- Candida IFIs occurred later, at a median of 86 days (IQR 40–121 days) after transplant. Of 169 IFI episodes, 121 (72%) occurred in the absence of recent antifungal prophylaxis; however, IC and non- Candida breakthrough IFIs were observed, most often representing failures of micafungin (n = 16) and aerosolized amphotericin B (n = 24) prophylaxis, respectively. Conclusions Lung transplant recipients at our hospital had high rates of IFIs, despite receiving prophylaxis with aerosolized amphotericin B lipid complex during the transplant hospitalization. These data suggest benefit in providing systemic antifungal prophylaxis targeting Candida for up to 90 days after transplant and extending mold-active prophylaxis for up to 180 days after surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Differential coordination of growth and patterning across metazoans gives rise to a diversity of sizes and shapes at tissue, organ and organismal levels. Although tissue size and tissue function can be interdependent1–5, mechanisms that coordinate size and function remain poorly understood. Planarians are regenerative flatworms that bidirectionally scale their adult body size6,7 and reproduce asexually, via transverse fission, in a size-dependent manner8–10. This model offers a robust context to address the gap in knowledge that underlies the link between size and function. Here, by generating an optimized planarian fission protocol in Schmidtea mediterranea, we show that progeny number and the frequency of fission initiation are correlated with parent size. Fission progeny size is fixed by previously unidentified mechanically vulnerable planes spaced at an absolute distance along the anterior–posterior axis. An RNA interference screen of genes for anterior–posterior patterning uncovered components of the TGFβ and Wnt signalling pathways as regulators of the frequency of fission initiation rather than the position of fission planes. Finally, inhibition of Wnt and TGFβ signalling during growth altered the patterning of mechanosensory neurons—a neural subpopulation that is distributed in accordance with worm size and modulates fission behaviour. Our study identifies a role for TGFβ and Wnt in regulating size-dependent behaviour, and uncovers an interdependence between patterning, growth and neurological function. A planarian fission protocol shows that the number of progeny and the frequency of fission initiation correlate with parent size, and TGFβ and Wnt signalling components are identified as regulators of fission behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The purpose of this study is the introduction and validation of a new technique for process monitoring during electron beam melting (EBM).Design/methodology/approach In this study, a backscatter electron detector inside the building chamber is used for image acquisition during EBM process. By systematic variation of process parameters, the ability of displaying different topographies, especially pores, is investigated. The results are evaluated in terms of porosity and compared with optical microscopy and X-ray computed tomography.Findings The method is capable of detecting major flaws (e.g. pores) and gives information about the quality of the resulting component.Originality/value Image acquisition by evaluating backscatter electrons during EBM process is a new approach in process monitoring which avoids disadvantages restricting previously investigated techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Facebook pages have been promoted as a cost-effective way of communicating with department alumni, students, faculty, and friends. We analyzed Facebook engagement metrics across a 2-year span for the page for one department of psychology. In addition, we surveyed followers of the page to determine whether different constituency groups appreciated different types of Facebook posts. In general, posts related to current faculty accomplishments were most engaging as judged by Facebook metrics and self-report survey data. The survey data also showed that different constituencies enjoyed posts related to their particular group. These results demonstrate that a department Facebook page can be an effective tool for reaching a wide range of constituent groups. We also discuss some tips for generating and managing a department page as well as challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selective electron beam melting (SEBM) is a promising approach in the fields of additive manufacturing of metals. It opens the possibility to produce complex geometries and to process a wide range of metallic alloys for various applications. To achieve a high level of quality for every component, the process parameters should be adapted to the characteristics of the required geometry. Currently available machine technology is not yet qualified for this kind of adjustment. To overcome the limitations, an advanced machine technology is introduced, which delivers new possibilities for process monitoring and control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This paper considers the differences in legislation between pre- and post-sixteen students regarding the use of the label ‘dyslexia’. Rationale: The Children and Families Act 2014 introduced new responsibilities for Local Authority educational psychology services. Some existing legislation takes a different view of the use of educational labels such as ‘dyslexia’ from that used traditionally with school-aged students. This can cause conflict and confusion for both clients and educators. Findings: Detailed examination of key cases that have set legal precedents reveal that the use of the label is not as essential as many have thought. A move towards an approach that considers the skills of an individual in the context in which they are working is compatible with current case law and would facilitate conclusions about an individual that may protect their entitlement to assistance without applying a specific label suggesting a life-long condition. Limitations: This article makes suggestions that may be subject to challenge by some pressure groups that have not been consulted. It further makes recommendations that have not been tested in UK courts of law. Conclusions: For educational psychologists working in this area, a new approach to assessment that highlights the functioning of an individual in a particular context rather than the traditional decontextualised assessments is compatible with existing UK law and removes the need for labels for individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective The objective of this study was to determine the time to hematologic recovery and the incidence of secondary sepsis and mortality among neutropenic infants treated or not treated with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF). Study Design We identified all neutropenic infants discharged from 348 neonatal intensive care units from 1997 to 2012. Neutropenia was defined as an absolute neutrophil count ≤ 1,500/µL for ≥ 1 day during the first 120 days of life. Incidence of secondary sepsis and mortality and number of days required to reach an absolute neutrophil count > 1,500/µL for infants exposed to G-CSF were compared with those of unexposed infants. Results We identified 30,705 neutropenic infants, including 2,142 infants (7%) treated with G-CSF. Treated infants had a shorter adjusted time to hematologic recovery (hazard ratio: 1.36, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.30-1.44) and higher adjusted odds of secondary sepsis (odds ratio [OR]: 1.50, 95% CI: 1.20-1.87), death (OR: 1.33, 95% CI: 1.05-1.68), and the combined outcome of sepsis or death (OR: 1.41,95% CI: 1.19-1.67) at day 14 compared with untreated infants. These differences persisted at day 28. Conclusion G-CSF treatment decreased the time to hematologic recovery but was associated with increased odds of secondary sepsis and mortality in neutropenic infants. G-CSF should not routinely be used for infants with neutropenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS) is a recognized condition in the lower limb, with many reports in the literature. However, very few instances include CECS of the upper limb. This article presents the case of a collegiate softball pitcher presenting with CECS in her right forearm. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of a softball player with CECS, with only one similar incident in a major league baseball player. Purpose: The rarity of this condition normally places it low on the differential diagnosis. However, we hope that the presentation of this case and the review of the literature will aid in making swift and accurate diagnoses of CECS in future patients. We discuss the importance of three specific modalities in the diagnosis of this patient, what diagnostic criteria proved less conclusive, and the paradoxical course the syndrome presented with. Study Design: Case Review Results: Over a six-month period, the patient presented with peculiar presentations and exam results. A broad list of differential diagnoses had to be narrowed down through the presence or absence of relevant findings. These included cessation of exercise for 1 month, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medicines, an electromyography/electromyogram (EMG), nerve conduction study (NCS), non-exercise magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the forearm, cervical MRI, and cervical computed tomography (CT) angiogram. After the above interventions were attempted and the relative findings of three important modalities were summarized, a fasciotomy and release of the dorsal, volar, and mobile wad compartments was performed. The patient's symptoms were relieved, and she eventually returned to full play in softball at the university. Conclusions: The three diagnostic criteria we believed to be most helpful in this case, and for future cases of CECS in the forearm, include the clinical presentation, pre- and post-exercise MRI, and pre- and post-exercise compartment pressure measurements. Clinical Relevance: Chronic exertional compartment syndrome of the forearm is extremely rare, especially in the female athlete. This case report and review of the literature may be helpful to the clinician facing similar cases. It describes which clinical tests are most helpful for diagnosis and which findings may be distracting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT In Drosophila melanogaster olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs) establish synapses with projection neurons (PNs) and local interneurons within antennal lobe (AL) glomeruli. Substantial knowledge regarding this circuitry has been obtained by functional studies, whereas ultrastructural evidence of synaptic contacts is scarce. To fill this gap, we studied serial sections of three glomeruli using electron microscopy. Ectopic expression of a membrane-bound peroxidase allowed us to map synaptic sites along PN dendrites. Our data prove for the first time that each of the three major types of AL neurons is both pre- and postsynaptic to the other two types, as previously indicated by functional studies. PN dendrites carry a large proportion of output synapses, with approximately one output per every three input synapses. Detailed reconstructions of PN dendrites showed that these synapses are distributed unevenly, with input and output sites partially segregated along a proximal-distal gradient and the thinnest branches carrying solely input synapses. Moreover, our data indicate synapse clustering, as we found evidence of dendritic tiling of PN dendrites. PN output synapses exhibited T-shaped presynaptic densities, mostly arranged as tetrads. In contrast, output synapses from putative OSNs showed elongated presynaptic densities in which the T-bar platform was supported by several pedestals and contacted as many as 20 postsynaptic profiles. We also discovered synaptic contacts between the putative OSNs. The average synaptic density in the glomerular neuropil was about two synapses/µm3. These results are discussed with regard to current models of olfactory glomerular microcircuits across species. J. Comp. Neurol. 524:1920-1956, 2016. © 2016 The Authors The Journal of Comparative Neurology Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective This study aims to examine the use and safety of rifampin in the hospitalized infants. Study Design Observational study of clinical and laboratory adverse events among infants exposed to rifampin from 348 neonatal intensive care units managed by the Pediatrix Medical Group between 1997 and 2012. Result Overall, 2,500 infants received 4,279 courses of rifampin; mean gestational age was 27 weeks (5th, 95th percentile; 23, 36) and mean birth weight was 1,125 g (515; 2,830). Thrombocytopenia (121/1,000 infant days) and conjugated hyperbilirubinemia (25/1,000 infant days) were the most common laboratory adverse events. The most common clinical adverse events were medical necrotizing enterocolitis (64/2,500 infants, 3%) and seizure (60/2,500 infants, 2%). Conclusion The overall incidence of adverse events among infants receiving rifampin appears low; however, additional studies to further evaluate safety and dosing of rifampin in this population are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks with conjunctival injection and tearing syndrome (SUNCT) is a type of trigeminal autonomic cephalalgia. Its etiology is generally idiopathic, though rarely it has been associated with viral infections. We describe the fourth case reported in the literature of SUNCT in association with viral meningoencephalitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Importance: Several management strategies may improve outcomes in patients with Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia.Objectives: To review evidence of management strategies for S. aureus bacteremia to determine whether transesophageal echocardiography is necessary in all adult cases and what is the optimal antibiotic therapy for methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) bacteremia.Evidence Review: A PubMed search from inception through May 2014 was performed to identify studies addressing the role of transesophageal echocardiography in S. aureus bacteremia. A second search of PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library from January 1990 through May 2014 was performed to find studies addressing antibiotic treatment for MRSA bacteremia. Studies reporting outcomes from antibiotic therapy for MRSA bacteremia were included. All searches, which were limited to English and focused on adults, were augmented by review of bibliographic references from included studies. The quality of evidence was assessed using the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation system with consensus of independent evaluations by at least 2 of the authors.Findings: In 9 studies with a total of 4050 patients, use of transesophageal echocardiography was associated with higher rates of a diagnosis of endocarditis (14%-28%) compared with transthoracic echocardiography (2%-15%). In 4 studies, clinical or transthoracic echocardiography findings did not predict subsequent transesophageal echocardiography findings of endocarditis. Five studies identified clinical or transthoracic echocardiography characteristics associated with low risk of endocarditis (negative predictive values from 93% to 100%). Characteristics associated with a low risk of endocarditis include absence of a permanent intracardiac device, sterile follow-up blood cultures within 4 days after the initial set, no hemodialysis dependence, nosocomial acquisition of S. aureus bacteremia, absence of secondary foci of infection, and no clinical signs of infective endocarditis. Of 81 studies of antibiotic therapy for MRSA bacteremia, only 1 high-quality trial was identified. In that study of 246 patients with S. aureus bacteremia, daptomycin was not inferior to vancomycin or an antistaphylococcal penicillin, each in combination with low-dose, short-course gentamicin (clinical success rate, 44.2% [53/120] vs 41.7% [48/115]; absolute difference, 2.4% [95% CI, -10.2% to 15.1%]).Conclusions and Relevance: All adult patients with S. aureus bacteremia should undergo echocardiography. Characteristics of low-risk patients with S. aureus bacteremia for whom transesophageal echocardiography can be safely avoided have been identified. Vancomycin and daptomycin are the first-line antibiotic choices for MRSA bacteremia. Well-designed studies to address the management of S. aureus bacteremia are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IMPORTANCE Several management strategies may improve outcomes in patients with Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia. OBJECTIVES To review evidence of management strategies for S aureus bacteremia to determine whether transesophageal echocardiography is necessary in all adult cases and what is the optimal antibiotic therapy for methicillin-resistant S aureus (MRSA) bacteremia. EVIDENCE REVIEW A PubMed search from inception through May 2014 was performed to identify studies addressing the role of transesophageal echocardiography in S aureus bacteremia. A second search of PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library from January 1990 through May 2014 was performed to find studies addressing antibiotic treatment for MRSA bacteremia. Studies reporting outcomes from antibiotic therapy for MRSA bacteremia were included. All searches, which were limited to English and focused on adults, were augmented by review of bibliographic references from included studies. The quality of evidence was assessed using the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation system with consensus of independent evaluations by at least 2 of the authors. FINDINGS In 9 studies with a total of 4050 patients, use of transesophageal echocardiography was associated with higher rates of a diagnosis of endocarditis (14%-28%) compared with transthoracic echocardiography (2%-15%). In 4 studies, clinical or transthoracic echocardiography findings did not predict subsequent transesophageal echocardiography findings of endocarditis. Five studies identified clinical or transthoracic echocardiography characteristics associated with low risk of endocarditis (negative predictive values from 93%to 100%). Characteristics associated with a low risk of endocarditis include absence of a permanent intracardiac device, sterile follow-up blood cultures within 4 days after the initial set, no hemodialysis dependence, nosocomial acquisition of S aureus bacteremia, absence of secondary foci of infection, and no clinical signs of infective endocarditis. Of 81 studies of antibiotic therapy for MRSA bacteremia, only 1 high-quality trial was identified. In that study of 246 patients with S aureus bacteremia, daptomycin was not inferior to vancomycin or an antistaphylococcal penicillin, each in combination with low-dose, short-course gentamicin (clinical success rate, 44.2%[53/120] vs 41.7%[48/115]; absolute difference, 2.4%[95%Cl, -10.2%to 15.1%]). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE All adult patients with S aureus bacteremia should undergo echocardiography. Characteristics of low-risk patients with S aureus bacteremia for whom transesophageal echocardiography can be safely avoided have been identified. Vancomycin and daptomycin are the first-line antibiotic choices for MRSA bacteremia.Well-designed studies to address the management of S aureus bacteremia are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transitions from statutory education to education, training or employment have not attracted much attention from psychologists, yet there is considerable interest from Government and local authorities in tackling the phenomenon known as Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET). One young person in 10 leaving statutory education at 16 falls into this category. The field is rich in information, covering the negative impact on health and other outcomes for young people in the NEET category as well as current thinking about the responsibility for young people undertaken by the state and the nature of employment in a post-modern context. The authors are a local authority educational psychologist and a Connexions personal advisor who have collaborated in developing a local screening tool to identify young people who might be at risk of entering the NEET category. The paper describes the rationale for such development and outlines the steps taken. The evaluation includes evidence for the validity and reliability of the screening tool. It further includes personal accounts of the benefits of early identification in safeguarding young people who do not meet the usual thresholds for intervention by external agencies. Overall, it can be concluded that the method offers a practical and useful way of identifying vulnerable young people and ways of improving outcomes [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large scale observational study by educational psychologists of 141 UK primary classrooms used a partial interval time-sampling observational schedule to record the frequency and type of verbal behaviour of teachers and whether students were “on-task” (following the teacher's directions) or “off-task” (not following the teacher's directions). Results were analysed and comparisons made between lessons that followed National Literacy Strategy or Numeracy guidelines and those that did not; between schools from different geographical contexts, e.g. rural or inner-city; between classes where there was one, or more than one, adult present; between schools with different percentages of free school meals; and between a.m. and p.m. lessons. A range of findings included higher rates of students being on-task than found by previous studies, and correlations between high on-task rates and teachers who used high levels of verbal behaviour including positive academic feedback. Teachers used three times more verbal approval for desired social behaviour in the classroom than has been reported in previous studies. It was found that teachers verbally interacted more with students during National Literacy and Numeracy Strategy lessons but that this did not lead to statistically significantly higher on-task rate. Similarly, teachers in inner-city schools interacted more with students, but on-task rates in inner-city schools were not significantly higher. Reasons for this effect are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study evaluates the capabilities of electron-optical (ELO) in situ imaging with respect to monitoring and prediction of manufacturing precision in electron beam powder bed fusion. Post-process X-ray computed tomography of two different as-built parts is used to quantitatively evaluate the accuracy and limitations of ELO imaging. Additionally, a thermodynamic simulation is performed to improve the understanding of ELO data and to assess the feasibility of predicting dimensional accuracy numerically. It is demonstrated that ELO imaging captures the molten layers accurately (deviations <100 μm) and indicates the creation of surface roughness. However, some geometrical features of the as-built parts exhibit local inaccuracies associated with thermal stress-induced deformation (deviations up to 500 μm) which cannot be captured by ELO imaging. It is shown that the comparison between in situ and post-process data enables a quantification of these effects which might provide the possibility for developing effective countermeasures in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Toll and Imd pathways induce humoral innate immune responses in Drosophila by activating NF-κB proteins that bind κB target sites. Here, we delineate a κB site sequence code that directs pathway-specific expression of innate immune loci. Using bioinformatic analysis of expression and sequence data, we identify shared properties of Imd- and Toll-specific response elements. Employing synthetic κB sites in luciferase reporter and in vitro binding assays, we demonstrate that the length of the (G)n element in the 5′ half-site and of the central (A,T)-rich region combine to specify responsiveness to one or both pathways. We also show that multiple sites function to enhance the response to either or both pathways. Together, these studies elucidate the mechanism by which κB motifs direct binding by particular Drosophila NF-κB family members and thereby induce specialized innate immune repertoires. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research studies show the crucial impact of empowerment and motivation on students' learning. Strategies for combating bullying which focus on whole school approaches and which include pupils, parents and carers are also more likely to be empowering and successful for those involved. Christopher Arnold draws on his experiences as a teacher and educational psychologist to emphasise empowerment as an essential not just for pupils but for the teaching profession as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Relaxin, a member of the insulin-like growth factor family, alters collagen metabolism in fibroblasts. It was hypothesized that relaxin interacts with the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), contributing to its elasticity. Twelve ACL specimens were collected from reconstruction surgeries, sectioned, rinsed, and exposed to rh-relaxin overnight. Polyclonal antirelaxin antibodies, in conjunction with HRP-AEC, localized areas of tissue binding. Controls were used to infer binding specificity. Staining was present in the positive control and all 12 ACL specimens; little or no staining occurred in the negative controls. These data suggest that relaxin binding to the ACL is specific, indicative of a receptor-mediated event. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development and use of a student-centred method for promoting good study skills is described. The student-centred course has been used by one group of trained students to assist younger students identified as having had difficulties in some areas of school work. The students' own comments are included. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]